In a recent government meeting, officials provided an update on ongoing efforts to manage hydrilla, an invasive aquatic plant, in the mill pond. The battle against hydrilla began in 2022, with various treatment methods employed, including airboat applications of herbicides and collaborations with the University of Florida and the Army Corps of Engineers.

The latest treatments included a March application covering 50 acres and a June application that expanded to 134 acres. Despite initial successes, hydrilla regrowth was observed, prompting plans for additional spot treatments using two herbicides, aquathol and dyquat, to target areas that were less effectively treated. The introduction of 600 grass carp is also planned, aimed at providing a long-term biological control method for hydrilla management.

Officials noted that the hydrilla problem has persisted since the early 1990s, with previous management efforts involving the introduction of nearly 10,000 grass carp over several years. Current strategies focus on a combination of herbicide applications and the introduction of new carp to maintain control over the invasive species.

In addition to hydrilla, the meeting addressed the presence of other invasive plants, such as water hyacinths, and the importance of native eelgrass for fish habitat. The budget for managing these invasive species has been robust, with over $200,000 allocated for herbicide treatments this year alone.

Looking ahead, officials anticipate that with the planned treatments and the introduction of grass carp, the mill pond should see significant improvement by spring 2025. The meeting concluded with discussions on managing floating debris in the pond, with a contractor set to begin skimming operations soon to enhance water flow and reduce odors associated with decaying vegetation.